Light snow and slick road conditions are expected across southeast Wisconsin today, potentially impacting New Year’s Eve travel, according to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan.
NWS forecast graphics show scattered snow showers developing late this morning, with snow becoming more steady from midday into the afternoon. A narrow band of heavier snow may set up across portions of Dane, Jefferson, Rock, Walworth, and Waukesha counties, with snowfall rates briefly reaching up to 0.25 inches per hour.
According to the National Weather Service, total snowfall amounts of up to 1 inch are expected, with a medium (around 40%) potential for localized totals exceeding 1 inch, especially in southwest Wisconsin. Areas farther northeast may see little to no accumulation if the snow band shifts slightly north or south.
Forecasters also note a low potential for patchy freezing drizzle, mainly ahead of and behind the snow band, which could worsen road conditions even where snowfall totals remain light. Snow is expected to taper off from northwest to southeast during the late afternoon into the evening commute.
Road impacts are expected on untreated highways and local roads, including I-94, I-43, I-41, and U.S. Highway 18, particularly during the evening commute and New Year’s Eve travel window. Bridges, ramps, and secondary roads may become slick quickly.
The National Weather Service cautions that while snowfall amounts will remain relatively light, timing during peak travel hours increases the risk of accidents. Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and remain alert for changing road conditions.
Snow is expected to end by tonight, allowing conditions to gradually improve ahead of New Year’s Day, though lingering slick spots may persist into early Thursday morning.
For commuters, service workers, and New Year’s Eve travelers, this system may cause delays despite modest snowfall totals.
